Big Akwa reaches a pivotal milestone in Alby
Big Akwa has taken a significant step forward in its plan to establish a modern land-based fish farm in Alby. In collaboration with partners FREA and Undeko, the company has launched the detailed planning phase that will lay the groundwork for siting, design, permitting, and construction. This milestone marks the transition from concept to a concrete, regulator-ready master plan and signals a long-term commitment to sustainable, local aquaculture.
What the planning phase entails
The detailed planning process covers critical elements required to bring a land-based fish farming project to life. Key activities include site evaluation, environmental impact assessments, infrastructure design, utility connections, and the development of a robust safety and biosecurity strategy. The aim is to create a scalable, efficient facility that minimizes environmental footprint while delivering high-quality fish products to local markets.
At the core of the project is the intent to employ Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) technology, which reuses water, reduces waste, and enables precise control over water quality and fish health. By integrating advanced monitoring systems, automated feeding, and energy-efficient equipment, the Alby venture seeks to demonstrate how modern land-based farming can be both productive and responsible.
Roles of the partners and the knowledge base
FREA and Undeko bring complementary strengths to the table. FREA contributes research-driven insights on best practices in recirculating systems, environmental safeguards, and sustainable feed strategies, while Undeko offers practical industry experience in project management, equipment integration, and supply chain readiness. Together with Big Akwa, the trio intends to align scientific rigor with practical execution, ensuring that planning decisions are informed by the latest advances in sustainable aquaculture.
Local impact and community focus
The Alby project is framed not only as a production facility but also as a catalyst for local jobs, skills development, and regional food security. The planning team emphasizes open communication with municipal authorities, local businesses, and residents to address concerns, share progress, and identify opportunities for collaboration. If successful, the facility could become a model for responsible, climate-conscious protein production in the region, reinforcing Sweden’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and the circular economy.
Timelines, permits, and next steps
While the planning stage is a critical start, the path to construction involves securing permits, conducting environmental assessments, and finalizing the site master plan. The teams will work toward achieving milestones that enable regulatory approvals and a smooth transition to construction and commissioning. Regular updates will be provided to stakeholders as the planning documents evolve into implementation plans.
Commitment to sustainability and innovation
The Alby initiative reflects a broader industry trend toward responsible, high-tech aquaculture. By leveraging land-based farming with water reuse, energy efficiency, and rigorous biosecurity, Big Akwa and its partners aim to deliver a steady supply of high-quality fish while minimizing ecological impact. The project also emphasizes resilience—reducing transportation emissions and strengthening local food networks—alongside ongoing research to refine and optimize production over time.
